Nowadays it’s a bit more difficult to find reasonably priced antique jewelry , but there are some wonderful shops around that offer beautiful work if you have the ready cash for it. I have spent many pleasant afternoons perusing the glass cases of antique stores in my neighborhood as well as in most cities across the country.

My favorite era has to be the 1920s through the 1940s- the art deco years. There were some fabulous cuff links crafted during this period, several examples of which I am a very proud owner. I actually wear my finds. Otherwise, what’s the point? Of course if you do wear your elderly jewelry you need to make sure all the parts are secure, fastenings and so forth. There’s nothing quite so upsetting as losing a pearl from an antique setting or worse yet, having an entire earring slip from your ear, lost to you forever.

The art of this period is tasteful and elegant, and I recommend you check out the work from these early 20th century jewelry artists.